Teyana Taylor is spreading her wings and forging ahead with her career. The Harlem-born singer has officially been released from her contract with Star Trak/Intercope Records and is already working on a free EP. “I officially got my release from Star Trak/Interscope. I’ve been signed with them for six years,” Teyana announced to DJ Skee. During her time on Pharrell’s label, the “Super Sweet 16” star was plagued by label politics, preventing her from releasing music or videos. “I was signed for six years and there’s a lot of stuff that comes with the industry,” she said. The 21-year-old, who appeared on Kanye West’s album My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy and toured with Game, addressed critics who questioned what she was famous for.
“They see the glory, but don’t know the story. When there’s not music being put out or you’re not moving, they automatically blame it on you, like, you’re not doing anything. What do you do, not knowing the politics of the music industry.” However, the relationship with her former label ended on good terms. “Everybody bowed out gracefully. There was no beef. I love Interscope, I love Star Trak. It’s always love for Pharrell; that’s my big brother. Now it’s time for me to go from a caterpillar to a butterfly. I had to fly away from the nest and venture out on my own.”
Teyana is currently a free agent and is speaking with other labels. But first, she’s giving her patient fans the music they’ve been waiting on for years. “Now that I’m independent right now, I get to make music and finally create an EP and give the supporters and the fans free music.” The EP will drop on February 29 led by the single “Make Your Move” with Wale. A second single, “DUI” featuring Jadakiss, will arrive on February 14. Teyana has also been in the studio with Meek Mill and directed a video for Bay Area rapper Erk Tha Jerk.
Teyana Taylor – Make Your Move feat. Wale (12′)